The Rams had expected Jones to be ready for training camp, so he's behind schedule. The fourth-rounder stands little chance of winning a starting job before Week 1. Ex-Bears first-round pick Chris Williams is the favorite at left guard.

Smith must participate in the otherwise voluntary drills to collect $276,328 in 2015 and $414,491 in 2016, which are abnormally big workout bonuses for a rookie deal. As PFT's Mike Florio points out, the contract structure may hint at internal concerns the Jets have about Smith's work ethic. It's perhaps also notable that the deal was brokered by Smith's agency, Jay-Z's "Roc Nation."

Spencer admits he may need surgery on knee

07-22-2013

Anthony Spencer LB NO

Cowboys LE Anthony Spencer admitted there's a possibility he'll need surgery due to a bone bruise on his knee.

If Spencer and the Cowboys decide to go the surgery route, the team's "franchise" player will miss two-to-three weeks of action. Nothing has been finalized yet, but we'd expect a decision to be made shortly so that Spencer will be back in time for Week 1. The injury happened in a pre-camp conditioning test.

Breaston hasn't drawn an ounce of known interest since meeting with the Steelers and Browns in late February. Teams have shied away from the soon-to-be 30-year-old as he works his way back from knee inflammation. Schilens has met with the Titans and Patriots since hitting free agency.

The Bolts were reportedly interested in Bannan last month, but nothing materialized. The 34-year-old is visiting the Lions on Monday. He doesn't pack the stat sheet, but Bannan is quality veteran depth with a knack for tying up blockers. He'd likely see the field more often in San Diego.

Kendricks had his right knee scoped in April. With the additions of Jared Cook, Tavon Austin, and Stedman Bailey, there's no way Kendricks catches 42 passes again this season. He'll be used mainly as a blocker.

Hillis' career has gone downhill fast. Since appearing on the cover of Madden three seasons ago, Hillis has rushed for just 896 yards and four touchdowns on 246 carries. He's also missed nine games over that span. The Bucs are likely just doing their due diligence on the 27-year-old. Michael Smith, Mike James, and Brian Leonard are currently slotted in as Doug Martin's backups.

Little, a Miami, Florida native, was the only out-of-state Browns player to make the trip to Edmond, Oklahoma. "We got three really hard days of work," Weeden said. "I threw until I couldn't throw anymore and he ran until he couldn't run anymore, so we got a lot of work in." It's good to see the third-year receiver showing more maturity and commitment to his craft. The Browns are reportedly "counting on a better year" from the 2011 second-rounder.

After missing offseason workouts due to his Dancing with the Stars appearance, Jones reported out of shape. This may be the push GM Ozzie Newsome needs to acquire a real No. 2 wide receiver. Jones had been penciled in as the starter opposite Torrey Smith, briefly giving him some deep-sleeper fantasy appeal. Free agent receivers still out there include Austin Collie, Brandon Lloyd, Laurent Robinson, Randy Moss, Braylon Edwards, and Donald Jones.

Levi Brown in danger of losing starting job?

07-22-2013

Levi Brown OT PIT

Cardinals LT Levi Brown reportedly may be in danger of losing his starting job to Nate Potter.

Per beat writer Mike Jurecki, Brown "didn't stick out" during the spring and it has "raised some eyebrows" heading into training camp. In a radio interview last month, coach Bruce Arians acknowledged that Brown looked "very rusty," leaving the door open for Potter to claim the job on Carson Palmer's blind side. Brown has been a slow-footed turnstile for much of his career.

"We don't think his injury is really, really significant, and he'll be back soon enough," coach Jason Garrett said. Hanna is expected to see a bigger role on offense this season, and many Cowboys beat writers like him as the No. 2 tight end -- ahead of second-round rookie Gavin Escobar. Dallas is expected to employ more two-tight sets after the release of FB Lawrence Vickers.

"I feel good about where that stands right now," Harbaugh added. "Continued competition will continue to be good for our team and those youngsters." Harbs also mentioned Marlon Moore as a player who is doing an "outstanding job." The 49ers worked out Austin Collie earlier in the offseason following Michael Crabtree's torn Achilles' tendon, but it appears they feel comfortable enough with the young group to this point. Veteran receivers Mario Manningham (knee) and Kyle Williams (knee) opened camp on the active/PUP list.

Smartly -- a description used far more often nowadays in D.C. under the Bruce Allen/Mike Shanahan regime -- the Redskins are trying to lock up Orakpo before his price tag skyrockets. It's shrewd business because Orakpo is coming off a lost season and his value is at a low, whereas it'll be at a high if he dominates in his contract year. It's unclear whether Orakpo is willing to bet on himself. He's been oft-injured in each of the past two seasons.

Perhaps this means the Jets will wind up signing Austin Collie, who was also at Monday's workout. Robinson, at least theoretically, is a classic "X" receiver -- the position vacated in New England's offense by Brandon Lloyd's release. Robinson would compete for playing time with Aaron Dobson, Josh Boyce, Michael Jenkins, and UDFA super-sleeper Kenbrell Thompkins.

The reasons for Jones' placement on the non-football injury list are unclear. Jones could be nursing a yet-to-be-disclosed injury, or he simply could have failed his pre-training camp conditioning test. Jones is penciled in incredibly lightly as the Ravens' No. 2 wide receiver. We suspect GM Ozzie Newsome will ultimately go get someone else before the season begins.

Texans waive RaShon Harris

07-22-2013

Ra'Shon Harris DT HOU

Texans waived DL RaShon Harris.

"Sunny" is a wide body at 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds, but has bounced around since the Steelers made him the 205th overall selection in the 2009 draft.

Yasinskas is an ex-Panthers beat writer. Stewart has been maddeningly slow to recover from offseason surgery on both ankles, and recently couldn't even play golf at a July tournament in which he'd been enrolled. Stewart will be an extremely dicey fantasy pick. DeAngelo Williams' arrow is quietly pointing up.

Health is the rub, as Ivory has been prone to injury since his college days, at least partially due to his fearless, ferocious running style. While not a good bet to last 16 games, Ivory will offer quality RB2 value whenever he dresses this season behind an underrated Jets offensive line. Ivory's current ADP falls in the late-fourth round, behind David Wilson, Montee Ball, and Le'Veon Bell.

It's a relevant move because active/PUP means Crabtree will open the 2013 season on the reserve/PUP list, costing him the first six games. He's not going to be the Niners' injured reserve/designated for return player. Doctors have reportedly told coach Jim Harbaugh that Crabtree's recovery is going "great," and the 49ers still expect him to play late this season. In all likelihood, Crabtree won't be back in action until Week 11 or 12 at soonest. And he probably won't be his old self before 2014. Crabtree isn't worth a fantasy draft pick.

Anthony Spencer missing time with bone bruise

07-22-2013

Anthony Spencer LB NO

Cowboys LE Anthony Spencer is sitting out training camp due to a bone bruise on his knee.

The injury happened during Spencer's pre-camp conditioning test, and dates back to OTAs. "It's concerning to me," acknowledged Dallas' franchise player. "It's bothering me right now. I really don't know what else to do, so just taking it day by day." The Cowboys don't believe Spencer has a worrisome injury.

The Dolphins apparently decided during Jeff Ireland's pre-training camp vacation that they're going to be a three-receiver, one-tight end team that uses an extra tight end whenever it runs out of the I-formation. It's also why the Fins decided against signing free agent Vonta Leach. Lane struggled as a lead blocker in 2012 and does not offer pass-catching ability.

The position is called "Sam" in Rob Ryan's defense, and was manned by Anthony Spencer in Dallas. The job is essentially Wilson's for the taking after Victor Butler's ACL tear. Junior Galette will play DeMarcus Ware's old position.

Ballard is now 15 months removed from his left knee ACL reconstruction and microfracture surgery. He was already lacking athleticism, speed and short-area quickness before the injury -- now it could be completely sapped. Ballard will have to fight with the likes of Daniel Fells, Michael Hoomanawanui and Zach Sudfield for a roster spot. Despite the release of Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski's injury woes, we don't like Ballard's chances of making a fantasy impact in 2013.

Demps doubles as an Olympic sprinter, and has all along made it clear his first love is track and field. The Bucs knew this when they acquired Demps from the Patriots for LeGarrette Blount. Demps' event at the Moscow games will be the 4x100 relay. The same relay team won a silver medal at the 2012 Olympic games.

Eric Wright fails 49ers physical; cut by Bucs

07-22-2013

Eric Wright CB SF

Buccaneers CB Eric Wright failed his 49ers physical and was immediately released by Tampa Bay.

The Bucs traded Wright to the 49ers for a conditional 2014 late-round pick last Friday. Wright was arrested for DUI the previous Friday night in Los Angeles, and San Francisco's failure of Wright on his physical suggests they did not know of the arrest before the transaction. The Buccaneers wanted nothing to do with Wright and cut him outright. He's now an unrestricted free agent. The 49ers will be on the lookout for cornerbacks throughout August.

He passed his conditioning test and received medical clearance, which is a very positive development for Baltimore's 2013 defense. Webb still figures to be limited in early training-camp practices, but should be all systems go for Week 1. A left and slot cornerback, Webb is easily the Ravens' top cover man.

One trait we noticed on Miller's rookie-year game tape was composed play, consistently running within the design of the offense. The same couldn't be said for David Wilson and Bryce Brown. "I think his knowledge of the system has definitely increased," Philbin said of Miller. "He appears to be a lot more comfortable with what he's doing. There doesn't seem to be a lot of indecision in his play." Miller is a prime 2013 fantasy football breakout candidate.

Griffin is on a similar schedule to Adrian Peterson last year. Peterson avoided the active/PUP list, but was significantly scaled back in terms of the kind of reps he was allowed to do. RG3 will face no contact until preseason games, where he'll likely be used sparingly. He remains a fantasy value pick at his ADP.

McClain had hoped to receive medical clearance to open camp, but did not. He's struggled to return from a spinal chord contusion suffered last December against the Redskins. McClain is expected to be a starter when healthy, but for now Arthur Brown and Daryl Smith may be better bets for the first-team defense.

Von Miller: I did nothing wrong

07-22-2013

Von Miller LB DEN

Broncos SLB Von Miller tweeted Monday that he "knows" he did "nothing wrong" in regard to his four-game suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy.

"I'm sure this'll be resolved fairly," he added. "Disappointed Broncos have to open camp like this." It's now believed Miller failed a recent test for the drug "Molly," which is essentially ecstasy, after getting popped for marijuana and amphetamines as a rookie, although there is still little clarity as to the specific reasons for his four-game suspension. The ban remains under appeal.

Swope missed all of spring practices while battling lingering concussion symptoms from college. The Cardinals have seemed very concerned about his health. They could wind up stashing Swope on I.R. and "redshirting" him for all of 2013.

"Well, we haven't gotten to who the starters will be at any position," Roseman said. "But when we signed Michael it was with every intention that he was going to be on this team. He's a very talented guy, and he's really eager to show what he's capable of." The Eagles could save $4 million by cutting or trading Vick, although they would still be swallowing his $3.5 million signing bonus.

Beat writer Reuben Frank admits Barkley enters camp as a "long shot," but notes that he was Chip Kelly's lone handpicked QB among Michael Vick and Nick Foles. If Vick and Foles don't "wow" on the practice field in August, Frank wouldn't be "shocked" if Kelly gave Barkley the nod. Barkley would have a very limiting effect on Philly's offense due to arm-strength and athleticism deficiencies.

An intriguing prospect with Dez Bryant/Julio Jones-type measurables, Johnson needs all the reps he can possibly get as a raw prospect out of Grand Valley State. He's a name to keep filed away in dynasty leagues. The Packers do have an opening at No. 4 receiver behind Randall Cobb, Jordy Nelson, and James Jones.

Though blessed with starting-caliber athleticism, Williams enters the NFL as a project recovering from an offseason knee scope. He'll be a long shot for year-one impact. Derek Newton is expected to keep his starting job at right tackle.

Ala Danieal Manning and Glover Quin before him, Swearinger is a versatile safety with experience playing cornerback, both outside and in the slot. With Ed Reed's (hip surgery) health status totally up in the air, Swearinger stands a legit chance to open the season as Houston's starting free safety. He packs a wallop as a tackler and plays with more range than his 4.67 forty suggests.

One of new OC Norval Turner's biggest offseason priorities was "speeding up" Weeden, whose rookie-year movement was lethargic to be kind. The Browns want him performing at a faster pace in every way, from his drop to delivery and decision making. We're optimistic Weeden will improve in year two, though not to the extent that Cleveland would bypass big-time QBs in the 2014 draft.

Stewart will presumably play free safety with McDonald at strong, although new DC Tim Walton generally considers his safeties interchangeable. If you're seeking IDP value, McDonald is the guy to target despite a limited skill set. We were unimpressed by McDonald's physicality and cover skills on college tape.

Quick maintains big-time talent, and the Rams aren't giving up on him after a slow rookie season. We'll find out a lot about Quick this August. "I know a lot was made that he was supposedly the 'fourth receiver' but I don't know how that story got legs and took on a life of its own," said Demoff. "Brian Quick has had a very strong offseason and we're excited about his progress."

"My priorities are definitely in order, definitely in line," Gordon said. "I still got a job to come out here and do every day. I've got to be accountable and be a grown man." Gordon has maintained he used codeine only to treat strep throat, but it is considered a recreational drug per league policy. Gordon tested positive for weed three times in college, twice at Baylor and once at Utah.

Bengals confident in Clint Boling

07-22-2013

Clint Boling G CIN

The Bengals felt comfortable releasing Travelle Wharton because Clint Boling has established himself as their starting left guard.

Boling, 24, replaced an injured Wharton at left guard last season and graded out as a top-11 guard in the entire league, per Pro Football Focus. Signed cheaply through 2014, Boling has proven to be a steal in the 2011 fourth round.

Von Miller popped for amphetamines, marijuana

07-22-2013

Von Miller LB DEN

The Denver Post reports Von Miller's four-game suspension is for testing positive for amphetamines and marijuana during his rookie season in 2011.

Miller entered the league with a positive marijuana test already on his resume, so the rookie-year violation was his second of the sort and necessitated a four-game ban. A third offense would knock Miller out for an entire season. Why the NFL took so long to suspend Miller is unclear, but it's believed he'll have a "hard" time winning his current appeal. The Broncos need to prepare to be without Miller until Week 5. Their fantasy defense takes an obvious blow, as aging replacement Shaun Phillips is a sizable downgrade.

Edwards, 30, hasn't made any known visits in free agency. He appeared in three games after coming over from the Seahawks last season but would likely only be an option if the Jets don't sign one of Austin Collie or Laurent Robinson.

Browns yet to approach Ward about extension

07-22-2013

T.J. Ward S DEN

T.J. Ward confirmed that the Browns have yet to approach him about a contract extension.

Ward is set to make $630,000 in the final year of his rookie deal and is not expected to be signed to a long-term contract before the start of the season. "I'm not really focused on that," Ward said. "If they offer something, then that's great. Right now I'm looking forward to this season. We'll see what happens after that."

Even with Alfonzo Dennard facing legal troubles, Dowling isn't considered a lock for the 53-man roster. The 33rd overall pick in 2011, Dowling has struggled with injuries and effectiveness in his first two seasons. He needs to put together a strong training camp to avoid being cut.

Williams said last month that he was close to signing a deal with the Bucs, but there still hasn't been any tangible signs of progress. Set to earn $1.4 million in final year of his rookie contract, Williams is believed to be seeking around the five-year, $36 million deal Stevie Johnson got from the Bills last offseason.

Griffin is just six months removed from reconstructive knee surgery, but managed to avoid opening camp on the active/PUP list. It's an Adrian Peterson-esque recovery and he remains on track to start Week 1. The Redskins are expected to manage his reps initially and will likely ease him into full-squad practicing.

The full details still aren't yet known, but the case is currently in the appeals process. An All-Pro linebacker in 2012, Miller has 30 sacks in his first two season and is one of the NFL's premier pass rusher. The Broncos will likely be forced to start Shaun Phillips if the suspension is upheld.

Richardson was sidelined for OTAs and mandatory minicamp with a right shin injury, but has been practicing "full-go" since reporting to camp last week. While the Browns insist he's fully healthy, his durability remains a concern. Richardson is currently the No. 10 running back in Rotoworld's preseason rankings.

The Jets are giving both Robinson and Austin Collie a tryout prior to the start of training camp. Robinson was released by the Jaguars this offseason after being diagnosed with four 2012 concussions, but says that he's "symptom free" and will attempt to continue his career on a non-guaranteed contract.

Slaughter was medically cleared despite missing the Browns' entire offseason program. He won't push Johnson Bademosi or Tashaun Gipson for a starting job, but will look to provide depth and contribute on special teams.

Nelson is 10 months removed from a torn ACL and was a limited participant in OTAs and minicamp. While his ability to come back from a significant injury remains a concern, he should be a strong candidate for the 53-man roster if he can prove he's healthy.

Ravens CB Graham hoping for long-term deal

07-22-2013

Corey Graham S BUF

Ravens CB Corey Graham said he's open to a long-term deal with the team.

Graham was the Ravens' most effective corner after injures forced him into the starting lineup last season. Entering the final year of his contract, he'll need to followup his strong second half to earn a long-term extension. Graham is expected to compete with Jimmy Smith for a starting job in training camp.

Smith will make roughly $5 million based on last year's slot vale for the No. 39 overall pick. After an underwhelming performance during the Jets' offseason program, he enters training camp behind Mark Sanchez for the starting quarterback job. ESPN New York believe Smith is "unlikely" to be the ready to start by Week 1.

Avant is coming off a career-high 53 catches last season, but is a middling talent and will face competition from Arrelious Been and UDFA Russell Shepard in training camp. Riley Cooper, Damaris Johnson, and Clay Harbor are also on the roster bubble.

Per beat reporter Armando Salguero, Tannehill continues to rely on Brian Hartline in the passing game and was "more comfortable" throwing to Brandon Gibson and tight end Dustin Keller. Signed to a $30 million guaranteed deal this offseason, the Dolphins will get Wallace more involved as he becomes acclimated in the offense.

Thomas was the clear-cut No. 2 running back throughout minicamp and OTAs, but the Dolphins are expected to let him compete with Lamar Miller for playing time in training camp. Even if Thomas can put together a strong preseason, he won't be more than a short-yardage and redzone specialist.

Ravens RG Yanda ahead of schedule in recovery

07-22-2013

Marshal Yanda OG BAL

Ravens RG Marshal Yanda is "ahead of schedule" in his recovery from offseason shoulder surgery.

Yanda missed the Ravens' entire offseason program and will likely be eased into training camp. The Baltimore Sun considers Yanda, Haloti Ngata (knee) and Terrence Cody (hip) candidates to be placed on the active/PUP list.

Ravens NT Ngata could open camp on PUP

07-22-2013

Haloti Ngata DT DET

Ravens NT Haloti Ngata is a candidate to open training camp on the PUP list.

Ngata was a non-participant in OTAs and minicamp and is still recovering from his Super Bowl knee injury. He resumed a running program last month but shouldn't be sidelined for long, if at all, during training camp.

Falcons not close to deal with rookie Trufant

07-22-2013

Desmond Trufant CB ATL

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Falcons "aren't close" to a deal with first-round pick Desmond Trufant.

This confirms a report by PFT that Trufant is hoping to use last year's No. 22 overall pick Brandon Weeden's slot value for a higher guaranteed contract. If Trufant holds out into training camp, it could impact his chances of winning a starting job. The Falcons are expected to have three-way competition at right cornerback between Trufant, Robert Alford and Dominique Franks.

"I feel like I have a great chance," Smith said. "I did a pretty good job overall of just adapting to the system and playbook and felt very comfortable with it by the end of OTAs and mandatory camp." Earlier this month, Mark Sanchez stated he "absolutely" expects to win the starting job. Both the New York Daily News and ESPN New York believe Smith is "unlikely" to be the Week 1 starter.

Arrington could be moved to right cornerback

07-22-2013

Kyle Arrington CB BAL

ESPN Boston "wouldn't be surprised" if Kyle Arrington starts at right cornerback.

Arrington was the Patriots' slot corner last season, but could be forced to start opposite Aqib Talib with Alfonzo Dennard questionable for training camp and possibly facing a suspension. Ras-I Dowling will also get an extended look, while third-round pick Logan Ryan projects as a backup and special teamer.

Adrian Wilson to open camp at strong safety

07-22-2013

Adrian Wilson S ARZ

Adrian Wilson will open training camp as the Patriots' starting strong safety.

Wilson was reduced to a part-time role with the Cardinals in 2012, but should get the majority of playing time as an in-the-box safety in the Patriots' base defense. He enters camp as the favorite to start and will likely be replaced by Steve Gregory and Tavon Wilson in passing situations.

With Rob Gronkowski (back, forearm) likely to miss most of the preseason, Sudfeld could emerge as a viable option in the Patriots' two-tight end offense. ESPN Boston gives Sudfeld a "65 percent" chance of making the 53-man roster.